There are some destinations tourists flock to for their art, some for their cuisine, and some for their architecture. A few special places, however, attract tourists who are after something deeper and less tangible—people come from far and wide in search of the mystical healing powers that these places supposedly contain. Whether or not you believe that a place actually has the ability to provide healing to those who visit, there’s no denying that there is something special about seeing people come together to connect with something bigger than themselves. Many of these locations also have a unique beauty which we’d argue is in itself worth visiting for.
Machu Picchu
Much about the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu remains a mystery to historians, including how it was constructed, for starters. While many visit in order to take in the views from the citadel and see its ancient architecture, there are some who are attracted by the powerful energy that the site was supposedly built upon. Healers and shamans from around the world make the voyage to Machu Picchu to gain insight and often report feeling a connection with the place before they even arrive.
The Dead Sea
Located between Israel and Jordan, The Dead Sea is actually not a sea at all, but a salt lake. The water’s high salt and mineral content has actual physical benefits that can now be proven through science, but for much of human history it was considered to have healing powers that were attributed to something mystical. People continue to flock to the Dead Sea for its benefits, though it’s expected to be completely dried up within the next few decades.
The Ganges River
The Ganges is considered a sacred body of water in Hinduism, drawing in over 20 million local and foreign visitors hoping to benefit from its supposed healing powers. Unfortunately, the river is actually quite polluted, though that doesn’t stop locals from bathing and even drinking its water.